Mary Barra's testimony and the public relations challenge for General Motors

WXYZ

Photo courtesy of General Motors.

(WXYZ) - General Motors Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra met with victims' families on Monday night in Washington, D.C., according to the company.

Barra is expected to apologize to all of those affected by the automaker's massive ignition switch recall at a hearing before the U.S. House Committee on Tuesday.

There are a total of 2.6 million vehicles, globally, involved in the GM ignition switch recall.

In her prepared statement posted to the U.S. House Committee's website, Barra says she doesn't know why it took years for the safety defect to be announced, but that they will find out and be fully transparent with their information.

Barra says, moving forward, General Motors will not shy away from responsibilities and do the right thing.

She will also offer an apology to GM's customers.

"Today’s GM will do the right thing. That begins with my sincere apologies to everyone who has been affected by this recall…especially to the families and friends of those who lost their lives or were injured. I am deeply sorry," the prepared statement reads.

Barra will present her full testimony Tuesday in the U.S. House Committee.